Veterans and Active Officers from India and Bangladesh Anticipate Enhanced Relations

Kolkata, Dec 16 (NationPress) While India and Bangladesh commemorate the 53rd anniversary of Vijay Diwas, a day that honors the significant victory in the 1971 India-Pakistan war, military veterans and active personnel from both nations come together to reflect on their collective history, expressing hope for a future marked by a more robust relationship between their nations.

In an interview with IANS, Wing Commander (Retired) D.J. Kler shared his reflections on the war: "Even after 53 years, the memories remain vivid. We lost countless brave souls, and I mourned many friends. Together, we played a pivotal role in establishing Bangladesh, liberating its citizens, and protecting their women from horrific atrocities."

"Unfortunately, the current situation there is troubling. Law and order have deteriorated, and minorities, particularly Hindus, are enduring suffering. What wrong have they done? They are peaceful individuals, not terrorists, simply regular citizens."

He expressed respect for the visiting Bangladeshi delegation, stating, "According to our tradition, guests are revered like deities. We will honor and safeguard them during their visit."

Major Rathindra Kumar Bhattacharya, a retired Indian officer, conveyed his sentiments regarding the significance of this annual gathering.

"I return here every year. It feels like a homecoming, a chance to reconnect with comrades and fellow veterans," he remarked.

On the situation in Bangladesh, he remained hopeful: "This is merely a temporary phase. Give it six months, and conditions will improve. India will not engage in actions that would incur international scrutiny."

From the Bangladeshi perspective, Major General Asim shared his thoughts on their shared history.

"Our aim is to celebrate the victory day for both of our nations. It signifies our liberation from Pakistan's occupation force, with immense support from the Indian Army. Commemorating this day together symbolizes our lasting friendship. This is an occasion we must continue to nurture for a durable alliance," he stated.

Major General Abdul Salam Chaudhuri (retired in 2009) from Bangladesh offered his insights on the situation in his country, especially regarding minority treatment.

"There are groups with vested interests that create misleading narratives for their own benefit," he noted.

"The reality tells a different story, in my belief. The bond between India and Bangladesh is robust and will endure indefinitely. For anyone who questions this, just observe how we are gathered here today," he said.

Vijay Diwas, observed on December 16, honors India’s victory in the 13-day war of 1971, which culminated in Pakistan’s surrender in Dhaka and the emergence of Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan).

This day, characterized by reflection and remembrance, also stands as a testament to the lasting friendship between India and Bangladesh.

This year, in a spirit of mutual celebration, eight Indian war veterans and two active officers have traveled to Dhaka for Bangladesh’s Victory Day festivities.

In reciprocation, eight distinguished 'Mukti joddhas' (freedom fighters) and two serving officers from the Bangladesh Armed Forces have journeyed to Kolkata to partake in the commemoration of Vijay Diwas.

The mutual respect and camaraderie exhibited by these veterans serve as a promising indication of a bright future for both nations.